Christine Cooke Poe

Christine Cooke Poe, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, educator, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025, at the age of 97. A woman of deep warmth, sharp intellect, and quiet strength, Christine leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, learning, and family. Born on Christmas Day in 1927, Christine brought joy and light from the beginning. She was a lifelong learner and passionate educator, earning her Bachelor of Science in Vocational Home Economics from the Alabama College for Women in Montevallo, Alabama. Her career in education spanned over 25 years and left an impact on countless students across the state of Alabama. She taught home economics, science, American history, and social studies, and served as an elementary school principal and guidance counselor. Her final year of teaching was at Fairhope High School before her well-earned retirement.

Christine’s commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. She was an active member of the Alabama Vocational Association for 14 years, where she served as the AVA Home Economics Section President (1981–1982) and AVA Secretary (1982–1983).

She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was a member of Wallace United Methodist Church until its closing. She later worshiped at Whitesburg Baptist Church in Huntsville, AL and faithfully continued to join services online when she was no longer able to attend in person. On July 3, 1948, Christine was united in holy matrimony with Roy B. Poe in Brent, Alabama. Their union was blessed with two daughters.

Throughout her life, Christine’s heart was firmly rooted in her family. She cherished time spent with her daughters, Krista Gallimore and Cyndi Chancery, and her son-in-law Tom Gallimore. She found immense joy in her grandchildren, Erika and Corry Cox, Clayton Gallimore, and Tyler and Taylor Gallimore, and her great grandchildren, Benjamin and Macy Cox, Elliot, Jack, and Palmer Gallimore. She also held a special place in her heart for her nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Christine lived life with intention and joy. She read avidly, worked crossword puzzles with precision, and never missed her daily Wordle game. She loved cheering on Auburn football and basketball teams and watching NCAA March Madness games. She remained deeply connected to her community through Facebook, where she kept up with friends, former students, and extended family.

Christine's cooking was legendary, and her kitchen was always a welcoming place for gathering and conversation. Her gentle wisdom, infectious smile, and steady presence will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services to honor Christine’s life and legacy will be held Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Southern Heritage Funeral Home, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham, Alabama with Rev. David Loyed officiating.

The Memorial Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm followed by the Celebration of Life Service at 2:00 pm

Christine Cooke Poe lived a life of purpose, compassion, and service. Her influence will continue to ripple through the lives of those she taught, loved, and inspired.